U.S. patent application number 10/597412 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-25 for processing golf score data.
Invention is credited to Pal Berg, Emir Gorancic.
Application Number | 20080234073 10/597412 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34793411 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080234073 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Berg; Pal ; et al. |
September 25, 2008 |
Processing Golf Score Data
Abstract
The invention relates to a score recording terminal (10) for
handling golf score data, and a method for implementing such a
terminal. Several score recording terminals are located at certain
points on a golf course, and each terminal is adapted to be
operated by a golf player by means of a personal smart card (20)
during play. The terminal comprises a keypad (12) for the entry of
input data from the golf player, a smart card reader (13) for
communication with the player's smart card (20), a memory (17) for
storage of data (171) and an executable program code (172), and a
microprocessor (14). The program code is designed to cause the
processor to read score data from the smart card (20), to receive
input data from the keypad (12), to calculate new score data on the
basis of the received score data and the received input data, and
to deliver the new score data back to the smart card (20).
Inventors: |
Berg; Pal; (Mandal, NO)
; Gorancic; Emir; (Mandal, NO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CHRISTIAN D. ABEL
ONSAGERS AS, POSTBOKS 6963 ST. OLAVS PLASS
NORWAY
N-0130
NO
|
Family ID: |
34793411 |
Appl. No.: |
10/597412 |
Filed: |
February 7, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
February 7, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NO2005/000045 |
371 Date: |
October 18, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/409 ;
235/487; 700/91 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2102/32 20151001;
A63B 71/0669 20130101; A63B 71/0616 20130101; A63B 57/505 20151001;
A63B 2225/15 20130101; A63B 2225/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/409 ;
235/487; 700/91 |
International
Class: |
A63B 57/00 20060101
A63B057/00; G06K 19/00 20060101 G06K019/00; G06F 19/00 20060101
G06F019/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 6, 2004 |
NO |
2004 0552 |
Claims
1. A score recording terminal (10) for handling golf score data,
comprising an input device (12) for entry of input data from a
user; a first communication device (13) for communication with a
personal information carrier (20); a memory ( 17) for storage of
data (171) and an executable program code (172); and a processing
device (14), wherein the processing device (14) is arranged to
receive score data from the personal information carrier (20); to
receive input data from the input device (12); to calculate new
source data on the basis of the received score data and the
received input data; and to deliver the new score data to the
personal information carrier (20).
2. A terminal in accordance with claim 1, wherein the processing
device is further adapted to receive form of play data which
indicates current form of play from the personal information
carrier (20), wherein said step of calculating new score data
includes calculating a score on the basis of the received input
data and said form of play data.
3. A terminal in accordance with one of claims 1-2, further
comprising a second communication device (15) for communication
with a central computer (50), wherein the processing device (14) is
further adapted to deliver the new score data to the central
computer (50) via the second communication device (15).
4. A terminal in accordance with one of claims 1-3, further
comprising a display device (11), and wherein the processing device
(14) is further adapted to display output data domprising said
source data on the display device (11).
5. A terminal in accordance with one of claims 1-4, wherein the
input device (12) comprises a keypad; the first communication
device (13) comprises a smart card reader; the personal information
carrier (20) comprises a smart card; the processing device (14)
comprises a microprocessor; the display unit (11) comprises a
screen; and wherein said steps performed by the proocessing device
(14) are performed in thar the processing device (14) executes said
executable code (19) contained in said memory (17).
6. A terminal in accordance with claims 1-4, wherein the input
device (12) comprises a keypad; the first communication device (13)
comprises a smart card reader; the personal information arrier (20)
comprises a smart card; the processing device (14) comprises a
microprocessor, adapted, with the aid of a script interpretation
program, to interpret a script; the display unit (11) comprises a
screen; and wherein said steps carried out by the processing device
(14) are carried out in that the processing device (14) interprets
a script with a code that has been input from said personal
information carrier (20).
7. A computer-implemented method for handling golf score data, for
execution by a score recording terminal (10), wherein the score
recording terminal (10) is adapted to communicate with a personal
information carrier (20), and wherein the method comprises the
following steps: receiving score data from the personal information
carrier (20); receiving input data from a user via an input device
(11); calculating new score data on the basis of the recieved score
data and the received input data; and sending the new score data to
the personal information carrier (20).
8. A method in accordance with claim 7, further comprising the step
of receiving form of play data which indicates current form of play
from the personal information carrier (20), and wherein said step
of calculating new score data comprises calculating a point score
on the basis of the received input data and said form of play
data.
9. A method in accordance with one of claims 7-8, further
comprising the step of delivering the new score data to the central
computer (50) via a second communication device (15).
10. A method in accordance with one of claims 7-9, further
comprising the step of displaying output data comprising said score
data on a display device (11).
11. A method in accordance with one of claims 7-10, wherein the
input device (12) comprises a keypad; the first communication
device (13) comprises a smart card reader; the personal information
carrier (20) comprises a smart card; the processing device (14)
comprises a microprocessor; the display unit (11) comprises a
screen, and wherein the steps of the method are carried out by the
processing device (14) in that the processing device (14) executes
said executable code (19) contained in said memory (17).
12. A method in accordance with one of claims 7-10, wherein the
input device (12) comprises a keypad; the communication device (13)
comprises a smart card reader; the persoanl information carrier
(20) comprises a smart card; the processing device (14) comprises a
microprocessor, adapted, with the aid of a script interpretation
program, to interpret a script; the display unit (11) comprises a
screen, and wherein the steps of the method are carried out by the
processing device (14) in that the processing device (14)
interprets a script with a code that has been input from said
personal information carrier (20).
13. A computer program for handling golf score data, for execution
by a score recording terminal (10) including a processing device
(14), comprising instructions which on execution by the processing
device (14) cause the score recording terminal (10) to perform a
method in accordance with one of claims 7-11.
14. A computer program in accordance with claim 13, i the form of a
program code contained in a memory, on a storage medium or carried
by a propagated signal.
15. A computer program for handling golf score data, for
interpretation and execution by a score recording terminal (10)
which comprises a processing device (14) with a script
interpretation program, wherein the program comprises a script code
which on interpretation by script interpreting program and further
execution by the processing device (14) causes the score recording
terminal (10) to perform a method in accordance with one of claims
7-12.
16. A computer program in accordance with claim 15, in the form of
a script code contained in said personal information carrier.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The invention relates in general to data and communications
technical aids for use when playing golf.
[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to a score
recording terminal for handling golf score data, a method of
implementing such a score recording terminal, and a computer
program for performing the method.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 5,949,679 teaches a system for handling golf
scores, comprising a central unit and units set out on the golf
course. The units set out on the course are used to record
strokes/scores, and these units send strokes/scores to the central
unit. The central unit processes this data and transmits the
players' competition scores to the units on the course. Clearly, in
this solution the units on the course are required to communicate
directly with the central unit via a communications link.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 6,246,917 describes an electronic scoring
process in which a smart card is used. The document can only be
seen to use the smart card as an identifier, and not for storing
strokes/scores. For this purpose, however, a separate mobile unit
is used.
[0005] WO-97/02873 describes a personal, mobile unit that is
operated by a golf player during the game. The document also
mentions the use of smart cards, but clearly as a transmission unit
for player data before and after play. The smart card is also said
to be able to contain information about the golf course and
identification data for the player. The document cannot be seen to
describe a solution which allows the golf player not to have to
carry a complex/costly terminal around with him whilst play is in
progress.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a
score recording terminal for handling golf score data, a method for
implementing such a score recording terminal, and a computer
program that performs the method, which do not have the drawbacks
of the prior art.
[0007] A particular object of the invention is to provide such a
score recording terminal, a method and a computer program which
permits electronic handling of golf score data, and which does not
require the golf player to carry a complex and/or costly terminal
or mobile computer around on the golf course during play.
[0008] A further object of the invention is to provide such a score
recording terminal, a method and a computer program which permits
electronic handling of golf score data, and which will function
without it being necessary to have a communications link between
data collection units set out on the course and a central unit.
[0009] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a score recording terminal as disclosed in
independent claim 1 below.
[0010] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a computer-implemented method as disclosed in
independent claim 7 below.
[0011] In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a computer program as disclosed in independent
claim 13 below.
[0012] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a computer program as disclosed in independent
claim 15 below.
[0013] Advantageous embodiments are set forth in the dependent
claims.
[0014] As a result of the present invention, the score table in
question, i.e., score data corresponding to the traditional
scorecards is constantly kept up to date in a personal information
carrier that is owned by the player. A communications link between
the score recording terminals out on the golf course and a central
unit is therefore not required, although this may also
advantageously be included as an additional, expedient feature of
the present invention. The invention therefore permits stand-alone
score recording terminals.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The attached drawings illustrate an advantageous embodiment
of the invention. Together with the description, the drawings serve
to explain the principles of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system
which includes score recording terminals in accordance with the
invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a score
recording terminal in accordance with the invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic overview of the score recording
terminal seen from above, a cross-sectional view seen from the
side, and a view seen from below.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a schematic, simplified overview of a golf course
illustrating the location of system components.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a personal
data collection unit in accordance with to the invention;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating an embodiment of the
personal data collection unit in the form of a smart card;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a central
data collection unit;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a
communication unit for use with the central data collection
unit;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a method in
accordance with the invention;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a schematic flow diagram indicating two
initialisation processes;
[0026] FIG. 11 is a schematic flow diagram indicating two final
scoring processes; and
[0027] FIG. 12 shows a score table which schematically illustrates
score data stored in the information carrier.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the
functional relation between different system components for
different scenarios.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0029] In what follows the invention will be described in more
detail as an example with reference to the drawings. Where
possible, the same reference numerals are used for the identical
elements in the different drawings.
[0030] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a
simplified example of a system which includes score recording
terminals in accordance with the invention.
[0031] The system shown in FIG. 1 is intended to be used on a golf
course. The system comprises three score recording terminals 10,
which in practice are located at different points on the golf
course. The system further comprises a central communication
computer 50, typically a computer provided with big screen for the
display of player results in a clubhouse. The system also comprises
a plurality (shown: three) of personal information carriers 20 in
the form of smart cards, and a central data collection unit 40 for
opening/initiation of the personal information carriers 20 before
play, and final scoring based on the information in the carriers
after play.
[0032] Each score recording terminal 10 is designed to communicate
with users, more particularly golf players, in connection with the
recording of data associated with a round of golf during the course
of play. Communication between each score recording terminal 10 and
a user takes place by means of a personal information carrier 20,
preferably in the form of a smart card.
[0033] A score recording terminal 10 is located in connection with
a hole or at a tee on the golf course, so that the player can, in
an expedient manner, record data associated with the round, in
particular the number of stokes for the previous hole.
[0034] Thus, in practice, the system will comprise a greater number
of score recording terminals 10 than the three which for the sake
of simplicity are shown in FIG. 1. The system will in practice also
comprise a greater number of information carriers 20 than the three
which for the sake of simplicity are shown in FIG. 1.
[0035] The score recording terminal 10 shown at the bottom to the
right in FIG. 1 is a stand-alone unit, and thus operates
independently, without any direct communication with the central
computer 50. This is made possible as the necessary, basic handling
of the score data is carried out on transmission between the score
recording terminal and the golf player's information carrier 20. A
communications link between the score recording terminal and the
central computer 50 is therefore not required for this basic
embodiment of the invention. Nevertheless, such communication may
be advantageous, particularly with a view to keeping the central
computer 50 constantly up to date with current data associated with
play on the course, e.g., in connection with tournaments.
[0036] The two score recording terminals 10 shown to the left in
FIG. 1 are, in accordance with an advantageous embodiment of this
kind, each designed to provide data communication (shown in a
broken line) between the score recording terminal 10 and the
central computer 50. The communication is preferably wireless,
carried out using a standard form of wireless data communication
for distances of up to 1000 metres out of doors. A suitable
communications form is known as wireless LAN. If necessary,
suitable repeaters are located on the golf course area so as to
obtain the necessary range.
[0037] The central communication device 50 is similarly designed
for the same type of data communication with a plurality of score
recording terminals 10.
[0038] Of course, it will be understood that the data communication
between the score input devices 10 and the central computer 50 may
alternatively be realised using cable, e.g., fibre-optic cable laid
in the ground.
[0039] The central data collection unit 40 is located centrally on
the golf course area, preferably in connection with a clubhouse.
The central data collection unit 40 is designed to communicate with
a user's personal information carrier 20, in particular in
connection with the initiation of the information carrier 20 before
play, and for retrieving data from the information carrier 20 after
play.
[0040] The central data collection unit 40 may in the simplest case
be a stand-alone unit, as illustrated in FIG. 1. Alternatively, it
may be operatively connected to the central communication device
50, for example by a hardwired or wireless data communications
link.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a score
recording terminal 10 in accordance with the invention.
[0042] The score recording terminal 10 is constructed in the form
of a digital, processor-based unit. It comprises an input device 12
for the entry of input data from a user, more particularly a
keypad. The score recording terminal further comprises a first
communication device 13, preferably a smart card reader, for
communication with a personal information carrier 20 (not shown in
FIG. 2), which is preferably a smart card. The score recording
terminal 10 further comprises a memory 17 for storage of data 171
and an executable program code 172. The aforementioned components
12, 13, 17 are connected by means of a bus 18 to a processing unit
14 in the form of a microprocessor. When the program code 172
contained in the memory 17 is executed by the microprocessor 14,
the score recording terminal 10 is caused to perform a method in
accordance with the invention in order to handle score data, and
which is explained in more detail below with reference to FIG.
10.
[0043] The score recording terminal 10 is also advantageously
provided with a transceiver 15 for providing data communication
between the score recording terminal and the central computer
50.
[0044] The transceiver 15 may, for example, be realised as a
communication module for wireless LAN, such as a wireless access
point module for 2.4 GHz radio communication in accordance with the
standard IEEE 801.11b. A module of this kind is known in the market
under the name D-Link DWL-900AP+. However, other suitable
transceivers 15 may be chosen freely by those skilled in the
art.
[0045] FIG. 3 is a schematic overview of a score recording terminal
10 of the simplest type, i.e., without a transceiver 15 for data
communication with the central computer 50. The figure shows (a) a
top view of the terminal, (b) a cross-sectional side view of the
terminal, and (c) a bottom view of the terminal. FIGS. 3(a)-(c)
show a possible location of the display 11, the keypad 12, the
smart card reader 13, and the slot for 131 for receiving a smart
card 20. FIG. 3(b) also indicates schematically the position of
other electronic components 19, including the microprocessor 14,
the memory 17 and the bus 18.
[0046] It will be understood that a transceiver 15, such as a
wireless LAN module as mentioned above, may be contained in the
electronic components 19 of the score recording terminal 10, or
that the score recording terminal 10 may be connected to an
external transceiver 15. Alternatively, the score recording
terminal 10 may comprise a wired connection to the central computer
50.
[0047] FIG. 4 is a schematic, simplified overview of a golf course,
which illustrates the location of some of the system components
shown in FIG. 1.
[0048] In FIG. 4 two score recording terminals 10 are set out in
connection with a tee, or more particularly at an area between a
hole and the next tee in the game. FIG. 4 also shows that the two
score recording terminals are wirelessly connected for
communication with the central computer 50.
[0049] In addition (not shown) a random number of stand-alone score
recording terminals 10 without connection to the central computer
50 may be positioned on the golf course.
[0050] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a personal
information carrier in the form of a smart card.
[0051] The smart card 20 comprises, in the usual way, an electronic
chip 21, containing a bus-based microprocessor architecture
including a bus 26, a microprocessor 24, I/O-circuits 25 and a
memory 22. The I/O-circuits comprise contact means for providing
communication between the smart card 20 and a smart card
reader.
[0052] FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating the outer appearance
of the personal information carrier in the form of a smart card 20.
As shown, the smart card 20 comprises, in the usual way, an
electronic chip 21 as stated in the reference to FIG. 5, and an
encapsulation 27 in the form of a plastic card.
[0053] FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a central
data collection unit.
[0054] The central data collection unit 40 is realised in the form
of a computer with standard, bus-based microprocessor architecture,
comprising a bus 46, connected to a microprocessor 44, a memory and
mass store 45, a display device in the form of a screen 41, input
devices for operation by a user, more particularly a keyboard 42,
and a smart card reader 43. The memory contains data and an
executable program code, which upon execution by the microprocessor
44 enables the central data collection unit to communicate with a
user by means of the screen 41, the keypad 42 and the smart card
reader 43. In particular, the program code contains instructions
for initiating the smart card 20 before play, and for carrying out
a final scoring procedure on the basis of data read out from the
smart card 20 after play.
[0055] FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a central
communication computer.
[0056] The central communication unit 50 is realised as a computer
having standard, bus-based microprocessor architecture, comprising
a bus 55, connected to a microprocessor 54, memory circuits and
mass store 53, a display device in the form of a screen 51, and a
communication component for wireless data communication, in the
form of a transceiver 52.
[0057] The transceiver 52 will be of the same type as the
transceiver 15 mentioned above with reference to FIG. 2, or at
least of a type that is designed to communicate with a plurality of
score input devices 10 of the type that is provided with data
communication devices.
[0058] In the alternative case that one or more score recording
terminals 10 are designed to communicate with the central computer
50 by a wired connection, such as a fibre-optic cable in the
ground, the central computer is provided with corresponding
communication interfaces to support such a connection.
[0059] Typically, the central computer will be provided with a big
screen 51, for display of play-related information for members of
the public in, e.g., the golf course clubhouse. The computer will
thus be operated by a computer program which handles input data
from the connected data collection units, and which displays
information derived, inter alia, from this data on the screen
51.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a schematic flow diagram which illustrates a
computer-implemented method for handling golf score data, in
accordance with the invention.
[0061] The method is performed by the score recording terminal
10.
[0062] The method is performed in response to the execution of the
program code 172 contained in the memory 17 of the score recording
terminal by the microprocessor 14.
[0063] Initially, the user's personal information carrier 20, more
specifically the smart card 20, is inserted 101 into the smart card
reader 13 in the score recording terminal 10. There is thus, for
the further steps of the method, a communications link between the
score recording terminal 10 and the smart card 20.
[0064] A reading step 102 is then carried out, in which score data
from the smart card 20 is input and included in data 171 contained
in the memory 17 of the score recording terminal 10.
[0065] The score data will more specifically be understood as a
score table. An example of a score table is illustrated in more
detail below with reference to FIG. 12.
[0066] Next, a receiving step 103 is carried out, in which input
data is received from the user via the keypad or a similar input
device 11. This input data comprises at least the number of strokes
the user has used in connection with recent play on the golf
course, more particularly the number of strokes for the previous
hole.
[0067] Then a calculation and storage step 104 is carried out, in
which new score data is calculated on the basis of the input score
data and the received input data, and is stored in the score data,
i.e., the score table, contained in the memory 17.
[0068] Advantageously, the first decision step 105 is then carried
out, in which on the basis of the form of play data received from
the smart card 20 it is decided whether points are included in the
form of play. If this it not the case, the process continues to the
second decision step 109. If this is the case, a point calculation
step 106 is carried out, the calculated points are stored 107 in
the score data contained in the memory 17, and the calculated
points are shown 108 on the screen 11.
[0069] As a result, the new, calculated score data will also
comprise a point score, in the case where the form of play data
indicates that points should be included in the form of play.
[0070] Advantageously, the second decision step 109 is then carried
out, in which it is decided whether the score recording terminal 10
is operatively and communicatively connected to the central
communication computer 50, in other words whether a transceiver 15
is present and operative in the score recording terminal 10. If
this is not the case, the process continues to the transmission
step 111. If, however, there is such an operative connection, the
sending step 110 is first carried out, in which the new score data
is sent to the transceiver 15 for relaying to the central computer
50, whereupon the process continues to the transmission step
111.
[0071] In the updating step 111 the new score data, more
specifically the updated score table, is transmitted to the
personal smart card 20 via the smart card reader 13.
[0072] FIG. 10 is a schematic flow diagram indicating two
initialisation processes.
[0073] The initialisation processes are carried out in parallel and
by interaction between the smart card 20 and the central data
collection device 40.
[0074] The first initialisation process, illustrated on the left in
FIG. 11, is performed by the processor 24 in the smart card 20,
controlled by a program code contained in an area of the memory 36
in the smart card 20. This process consists, in the simplest,
illustrated case, of an initial score table being received from the
central data collection unit 40, and being stored on the smart card
20.
[0075] It will be understood that the processing possibilities of
the smart card open the way for further possibilities, e.g.,
including encryption and certificate functions.
[0076] The second initialisation process, illustrated to the right
in FIG. 11, is performed by the processor 44 in the central data
collection unit 40, controlled by a program code contained in a
memory area comprised of memory/store 45.
[0077] Course data, including slope, course rating, par and index
for the course holes, is retrieved from memory/store 45. Data
associated with desired form of play, identification data (name,
gender) for the player, and an identification of the tee, is input
from the keyboard 42, operated by the player. If handicap is
included in the desired form of play, handicap is also entered, and
handicap strokes are calculated and allocated across the holes. The
process is repeated as shown in FIG. 10 if there are several score
tables on the smart card. Lastly, the generated score table is
stored in memory/store 45, whereupon it is ultimately transmitted
to the smart card 20 and stored there.
[0078] FIG. 11 is a schematic flow diagram showing two final
scoring processes.
[0079] The final scoring processes are carried out in parallel and
by interaction between the smart card 20 and the central data
collection device 40.
[0080] The first final scoring process, illustrated on the left in
FIG. 11, is performed by the processor 24 in the smart card 20,
controlled by a program code contained in an area of the memory 36
in the smart card 20. This process consists in the simplest,
illustrated case of the score table being output from the memory in
the smart card and transmitted to the central data collection unit
40.
[0081] It will be understood that the processing possibilities of
the smart card open the way for further possibilities, e.g.,
including encryption and certificate functions.
[0082] The second final recording process, illustrated on the right
in FIG. 11, is performed by the processor 44 in the central data
collection unit 40, controlled by a program code contained in a
memory area comprised of memory/store 45.
[0083] First, a score table is input from the smart card 20. A
result of the round of golf played is calculated on the basis of
the entered score table, and is displayed on the screen 41. It is
decided whether the round played counts for handicap, and if it
does, a new handicap is calculated and displayed. Provided that a
printer is also operatively connected to the central data
collection unit 40, the score table is subsequently printed out by
this printer. The score table is also stored in the memory/store 45
of the central data collection device 40.
[0084] FIG. 12 illustrates score data stored in the information
carrier, in the form of a score table.
[0085] FIG. 12 shows an illustrative example of a score table 60,
comprising a data structure illustrated with eight lines and a
varying number of columns for the different lines.
[0086] Data that is specific to the golf player is given in the top
line, i.e., the fields Name (gender), Handicap, Time.
[0087] Data that is specific to the golf course is given in the
fields Course Rating and Slope Rating in the second line down, and
in the fourth and fifth lines down, where values for Par and Index
are entered for each of the 18 holes of the course. A separate
field indicates total par for the 18 holes.
[0088] Data that is specific to the actual round being played is
given in the fields Form of Play, Tee and Playing Handicap in the
second line down, and in the sixth, seventh and eighth line down,
where there is a space for filling in values for respectively
Handicap Strokes, Strokes and Points for each of the 18 holes.
Separate fields indicate the total number of Strokes and the total
number of Points.
[0089] Playing handicap and handicap strokes will be calculated
from the round data before play on the basis of the player's and
the course's data, cf. formula [1]:
Playing handicap=player's handicap.times.slope rating/113+course
rating-course par. [1]
[0090] Strokes and points will be entered and calculated, cf.
formula [2] during the round:
Number of points=hole par-net strokes+2 [2]
[0091] It will be understood that FIG. 13 is given for illustrative
purposes, and that a suitable data structure can easily be realised
for storage in the smart card 20, and in the memory/store of the
various terminals/units in which the table is to be found. The
values given in the score table shown in FIG. 13 are of course only
used as an example.
[0092] FIG. 13 illustrates the functional relation between
different system components for different scenarios.
[0093] The score table 60 contained within the smart card 20 holds
information about the game and is the only information exchanged
between the components.
[0094] Scenario 1) illustrates that the score table 60 is
downloaded from the central data collection unit 40 to the smart
card 20. This happens before play.
[0095] Scenario 2) illustrates a simple scoring process that is
carried out during the game. The score table 60 is sent from the
smart card 20 to the score recording terminal 10, where the player
enters stroke data associated with the hole that has just been
played during the round. This stroke data is then stored in the
score table 60, which is transmitted back to the smart card 20.
[0096] Scenario 3) is an extension of scenario 2), where the score
table 60 in addition is transmitted via the wireless communications
link to the central communication computer 50.
[0097] Scenario 4) outlines the final scoring process, where the
final updated score table 60 is transmitted to the data collection
unit 40. It may also be expedient that the score table 60 is also
transmitted from the data collection unit 40 to the central
communication unit 50 for display on the screen 51, e.g., during
tournaments.
[0098] A computer program, including an executable program code,
which performs the method in accordance with the invention when the
computer program is executed by a processing device in a score
recording terminal or other suitably equipped computer, may easily
be implemented by those skilled in the art on the basis of the
detailed description given above, in particular with reference to
FIG. 9 and the associated description. Such a computer program may,
in concrete terms, be realised in the form of a program code
contained in a memory, either isolated or included in the memory 17
of the score recording terminal 10. Alternatively, the program code
may be on a magnetic, optical or semi-conductor based storage
medium, or the program code may be carried by a propagated signal,
for example on transmission between computers linked together in a
network.
[0099] In one particular embodiment, the program code which
performs the method may be realised in the form of a script which
is stored in the personal information carrier, and which is input
in the score recording terminal when the information carrier is
inserted into the terminal. In this case, the score recording
terminal will be equipped with a script interpretation program as
for instance JavaScript, which interprets the script code that is
contained in the information carrier, and which also translates the
script code into executable program instructions that are carried
out by the processing device contained within the terminal.
[0100] Many modifications and adaptations of the present invention
will naturally be apparent to the skilled person, either upon
interpreting the present description of the invention or on putting
the invention into practice.
[0101] The above detailed description is presented specifically
with a view to illustrating and describing an advantageous
embodiment of the invention. However, the description in no way
limits the invention to the specific embodiment that is described
in detail.
[0102] For example, the information carrier 20 is specifically
disclosed as a smart card. This is particularly expedient for
certain embodiments of the invention, e.g., with a view to
encryption and certificate functions, which will require processor
power in the information carrier 20. The basic features of the
invention may, however, be obtained just as readily by using a
passive information carrier such as a magnetic medium, e.g., a
magnetic strip card or a memory chip.
[0103] Furthermore, it will be understood that the processes for
initialisation and final scoring could also be carried out in any
computer equipped with a suitable smart card reader. For example,
one embodiment of the score input unit 10 may also comprise program
modules which allow the execution of these processes, so that
initialisation and final scoring can be performed by a score
recording terminal 10.
[0104] Further modifications and variations will be obvious to the
skilled person in the light of the above description. The scope of
the invention is apparent from the patent claims below and their
equivalents.
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